By Ashley Reyes

Video of the 2020 SEMA Launch Pad competition, presented by the Young Executives Network (YEN), is now available on the SEMA Launch Pad website. Featuring exclusive footage of this year’s competitors in action, the 45-minute video includes backstage interviews and discussions with the finalists and judges.

Watch the actual pitches made by Roland Hence of FrontLane Inc., Justin Bradshaw of REVER, Eric Rivera of Dirt Dynamix, Matt Rafeld of BeachComber Offroad and Khanjan Desai of Alchemy, and listen as the judges gives each competitor feedback, and discuss the presentations among themselves. With the judges grading on how well the ideas were presented, innovation of product, and overall business plan, decide for yourself who you think had the best product.

“The process that has led them to this point has been really intense,” said Launch Pad judge Melanie White of Hellwig Products. “But you can tell there is so much passion and that’s what I love about this. All of them are solving a problem in our industry.”

White was joined by Launch Pad host Aaron Kaufman, and judges Daryl Sampson of Turn 14 Distribution, Dan Kahn of Kahn Media, Jonathan Mill of Alloy Studios and Brian Reese of The Retrofit Source.

“What I was not expecting is how conversational the questions became,” said Hence, who was selected as Launch Pad winner for his product the Impulse – Emergency Brake Light. “It really felt like we were working together to find a way to make the product and the company better. I really appreciated that and it was a great surprise.”  

Learn how the other four finalists are advancing the specialty-equipment industry, apply to pre-qualify for the 2021 competition, and sign up to receive program updates by visiting the SEMA Launch Pad website.

By Ashley Reyes

Video of the 2020 SEMA Launch Pad competition, presented by the Young Executives Network (YEN), is now available on the SEMA Launch Pad website. Featuring exclusive footage of this year’s competitors in action, the 45-minute video includes backstage interviews and discussions with the finalists and judges.

Watch the actual pitches made by Roland Hence of FrontLane Inc., Justin Bradshaw of REVER, Eric Rivera of Dirt Dynamix, Matt Rafeld of BeachComber Offroad and Khanjan Desai of Alchemy, and listen as the judges gives each competitor feedback, and discuss the presentations among themselves. With the judges grading on how well the ideas were presented, innovation of product, and overall business plan, decide for yourself who you think had the best product.

“The process that has led them to this point has been really intense,” said Launch Pad judge Melanie White of Hellwig Products. “But you can tell there is so much passion and that’s what I love about this. All of them are solving a problem in our industry.”

White was joined by Launch Pad host Aaron Kaufman, and judges Daryl Sampson of Turn 14 Distribution, Dan Kahn of Kahn Media, Jonathan Mill of Alloy Studios and Brian Reese of The Retrofit Source.

“What I was not expecting is how conversational the questions became,” said Hence, who was selected as Launch Pad winner for his product the Impulse – Emergency Brake Light. “It really felt like we were working together to find a way to make the product and the company better. I really appreciated that and it was a great surprise.”  

Learn how the other four finalists are advancing the specialty-equipment industry, apply to pre-qualify for the 2021 competition, and sign up to receive program updates by visiting the SEMA Launch Pad website.

By Ashley Reyes

Video of the 2020 SEMA Launch Pad competition, presented by the Young Executives Network (YEN), is now available on the SEMA Launch Pad website. Featuring exclusive footage of this year’s competitors in action, the 45-minute video includes backstage interviews and discussions with the finalists and judges.

Watch the actual pitches made by Roland Hence of FrontLane Inc., Justin Bradshaw of REVER, Eric Rivera of Dirt Dynamix, Matt Rafeld of BeachComber Offroad and Khanjan Desai of Alchemy, and listen as the judges gives each competitor feedback, and discuss the presentations among themselves. With the judges grading on how well the ideas were presented, innovation of product, and overall business plan, decide for yourself who you think had the best product.

“The process that has led them to this point has been really intense,” said Launch Pad judge Melanie White of Hellwig Products. “But you can tell there is so much passion and that’s what I love about this. All of them are solving a problem in our industry.”

White was joined by Launch Pad host Aaron Kaufman, and judges Daryl Sampson of Turn 14 Distribution, Dan Kahn of Kahn Media, Jonathan Mill of Alloy Studios and Brian Reese of The Retrofit Source.

“What I was not expecting is how conversational the questions became,” said Hence, who was selected as Launch Pad winner for his product the Impulse – Emergency Brake Light. “It really felt like we were working together to find a way to make the product and the company better. I really appreciated that and it was a great surprise.”  

Learn how the other four finalists are advancing the specialty-equipment industry, apply to pre-qualify for the 2021 competition, and sign up to receive program updates by visiting the SEMA Launch Pad website.

By SEMA Editors

On November 19, at 8:00 p.m. (EST), Ford will show off its hottest new rides customized for your next adventure, streaming live for 60 minutes on YouTube. The SEMA Show special event will highlight product news, project vehicle reveals, behind-the-garage-door stories with customers, celebrities and dealers and more. All are welcome to tune in.

On the following day, November 20, the event will feature 30-minute live, interactive Q&A sessions with designers, engineers, builders and drivers, and will also showcase the Bronco, Bronco Sport, F-150 and Mustang Mach-E. Sessions will take place throughout the day, and attendees will have a chance to win a VIP Experience with Ford during the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

On Day 2, space is limited to the first 250 registrants per each Q&A session, so reserve your spot today. To get on the invitation list for one of these exclusive sessions, click here.

By SEMA Editors

On November 19, at 8:00 p.m. (EST), Ford will show off its hottest new rides customized for your next adventure, streaming live for 60 minutes on YouTube. The SEMA Show special event will highlight product news, project vehicle reveals, behind-the-garage-door stories with customers, celebrities and dealers and more. All are welcome to tune in.

On the following day, November 20, the event will feature 30-minute live, interactive Q&A sessions with designers, engineers, builders and drivers, and will also showcase the Bronco, Bronco Sport, F-150 and Mustang Mach-E. Sessions will take place throughout the day, and attendees will have a chance to win a VIP Experience with Ford during the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

On Day 2, space is limited to the first 250 registrants per each Q&A session, so reserve your spot today. To get on the invitation list for one of these exclusive sessions, click here.

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is the largest database of specialty market product information.

Manufacturers whose products are shown here have achieved data excellence status by providing the desired product descriptions, digital assets, vehicle fitment and other sales-related facts to make it easy for retailers, jobbers and WDs to create engaging and informative product listings, giving customers confidence in their buying decision.

Products from these and other brands with rich data will be featured in future SEMA eNews issues.

ARIES RidgeStep Running Boards for ’21 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 (#2055541)

With their solid, all-steel construction, non-skid treads and durable powder coat finish, ARIES RidgeStep running boards are made for hardworking trucks and tough jobs. They feature high-strength, solid steel construction for a step that won't crack or fade over time.

This set of RidgeStep running boards fit the ’19-’21 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab, as well as the 2020 Silverado and Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD crew cab.

• High-strength, all-steel construction with no plastic parts
• Angular design for a tough, no-nonsense look on hardworking trucks
• Stamped steel treads for a non-skid step that will never wear or crack
• Flat profile and 6-1/2-in. width provide a comfortable step
• Textured black powder coat easily hides minor scratches and grime
• Dual-layer E-coat and powder coat finish for maximum corrosion resistance
• Welded steel end caps for a durable accent
• VersaTrac mounting system for easy installation and vehicle customization
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel mounting brackets for a solid step
• Limited lifetime warranty (three-year finish, one-year parts)

AutoMeter BEX Series Battery Chargers

Battery extenders keep your battery at full charge on a continuous basis. Batteries not kept at full charge become sulfated, whereas maintaining stored batteries at full charge maximizes battery life. The BEX series battery chargers are fully equipped with sophisticated circuitry that will safely charge and maintain batteries without overcharging.

The BEX series chargers are versatile battery chargers with a compact ruggedized composite shell that makes them safe to set and forget on all of your household vehicles. This is perfect for any motorcycle, boat, snowmobile, car, truck, RV, and lawnmower. Prevent premature battery failure with the BEX-1500, BEX-3000, or BEX-5000 from AutoMeter.

CURT Anti-Rattle Hitch Clamp (#22325)

CURT has added a new anti-rattle option to its lineup! This 2” hitch clamps help ensure a quieter ride when towing a trailer, quickly and easily clamping over the receiver hitch connection to stop rattling, vibration and noise.
This anti-rattle hitch clamp is compatible with hollow- or solid-shank accessories, and it requires zero tools for installation.

• A 2-1/2-in. shank model #22320 is also available.
• Stops rattling and prevents shank movement for a quieter ride
• Compatible with hollow and solid 2-in. shanks
• No-tool installation and easy-to-adjust clamp lever
• Constructed from high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum
• Protected by a durable, clear finish for corrosion resistance
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

HushMat Sound Deadening and Thermal Insulation23)

HushMat’s ’94-’02 Dodge RAM Regular Cab Truck sound deadening and thermal insulation material is designed to make every type of vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable to drive and enjoy!  HushMat is an easy to install, USA Made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface.

No tools, glues and or special equipment needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a Year, Make and Model specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers.  

HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed. Visit www.hushmat.com or call 913-599-2600.

LUVERNE Black Stainless Steel Side Entry Steps for 2020 Ram 1500 to 5500 (#281033-571632)

LUVERNE Side Entry Steps feature a classic, contoured design that mounts flush to the truck’s rocker panels to provide 5-1/2-in. of comfortable, non-skid stepping width while helping to protect the rocker panels against gravel spray, road debris, mud and other threats.

This set of Side Entry Steps fits the ’20 Ram 1500 to 5500 crew cab, as well as other model years.

• Contoured design with classic running board styling
• Mounts tight against the vehicle to shield rocker panels from gravel spray
• Molded, 5-1/2-in. wide, plastic step pads provide safe, comfortable entry and exit
• Powder-coated stainless steel construction for maximum corrosion resistance
• Durable, textured black powder coat for a sleek, rust-free finish
• Black plastic end caps for a bold appearance and added protection
• High-strength steel mounting brackets with a vehicle-specific fit
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)
• Assembled in USA

UWS 48-in. Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile (#TBSM-48-LP)

UWS truck side tool boxes provide valuable storage and security for your items in the bed of your truck. Each box features a corrosion-resistant aluminum construction, a stainless steel locking system and a patented RigidCore foam-filled lid.

This particular truck side tool box also features a low-profile lid. It mounts low on the truck bed wall to better integrate with UWS low-profile crossover tool boxes and help maintain a clear view out the rear truck cab window.

• Mounts on the inside of the truck bed rails to provide additional storage space
• Patented RigidCore foam-filled lid to maximize strength and prevent binding
• Built lower on the bed rail to match low-profile crossover tool boxes
• 0.058-in. extra-thick, one-piece aluminum tub holds heavy tools and cargo
• Lockable, push-button operation with non-corrosive stainless steel construction
• MicroSeal gasket helps seal out moisture, dust and dirt
• Lid self-opens to nearly 90 degrees for convenient operation and loading
• Multiple box sizes available for a custom fit on each truck application
• Assembled in USA
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

ZyBar 4 oz. Cast Finish (part no. 13004)

ZyBar 4 oz. Cast Finish (part no. 13004) high-temperature heat dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat, reduce under hood temperatures, offers outstanding corrosion resistance, provides lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extends the life of your components. ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F.

ZyBar is a single component, durable polymer coating that far out performs ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes.   

ZyBar is spray applied inside and outside the component.  ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhaust, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven cured (two hours at 450 F) or air cured (120 hours). Builders, jobbers, dealers and specialty coating operations interested in learning more can call our office 913-599-2600, or visit www.zycoat.com.

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is the largest database of specialty market product information.

Manufacturers whose products are shown here have achieved data excellence status by providing the desired product descriptions, digital assets, vehicle fitment and other sales-related facts to make it easy for retailers, jobbers and WDs to create engaging and informative product listings, giving customers confidence in their buying decision.

Products from these and other brands with rich data will be featured in future SEMA eNews issues.

ARIES RidgeStep Running Boards for ’21 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 (#2055541)

With their solid, all-steel construction, non-skid treads and durable powder coat finish, ARIES RidgeStep running boards are made for hardworking trucks and tough jobs. They feature high-strength, solid steel construction for a step that won't crack or fade over time.

This set of RidgeStep running boards fit the ’19-’21 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab, as well as the 2020 Silverado and Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD crew cab.

• High-strength, all-steel construction with no plastic parts
• Angular design for a tough, no-nonsense look on hardworking trucks
• Stamped steel treads for a non-skid step that will never wear or crack
• Flat profile and 6-1/2-in. width provide a comfortable step
• Textured black powder coat easily hides minor scratches and grime
• Dual-layer E-coat and powder coat finish for maximum corrosion resistance
• Welded steel end caps for a durable accent
• VersaTrac mounting system for easy installation and vehicle customization
• No-drill, vehicle-specific application for a custom fit
• Heavy-duty, powder-coated steel mounting brackets for a solid step
• Limited lifetime warranty (three-year finish, one-year parts)

AutoMeter BEX Series Battery Chargers

Battery extenders keep your battery at full charge on a continuous basis. Batteries not kept at full charge become sulfated, whereas maintaining stored batteries at full charge maximizes battery life. The BEX series battery chargers are fully equipped with sophisticated circuitry that will safely charge and maintain batteries without overcharging.

The BEX series chargers are versatile battery chargers with a compact ruggedized composite shell that makes them safe to set and forget on all of your household vehicles. This is perfect for any motorcycle, boat, snowmobile, car, truck, RV, and lawnmower. Prevent premature battery failure with the BEX-1500, BEX-3000, or BEX-5000 from AutoMeter.

CURT Anti-Rattle Hitch Clamp (#22325)

CURT has added a new anti-rattle option to its lineup! This 2” hitch clamps help ensure a quieter ride when towing a trailer, quickly and easily clamping over the receiver hitch connection to stop rattling, vibration and noise.
This anti-rattle hitch clamp is compatible with hollow- or solid-shank accessories, and it requires zero tools for installation.

• A 2-1/2-in. shank model #22320 is also available.
• Stops rattling and prevents shank movement for a quieter ride
• Compatible with hollow and solid 2-in. shanks
• No-tool installation and easy-to-adjust clamp lever
• Constructed from high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum
• Protected by a durable, clear finish for corrosion resistance
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

HushMat Sound Deadening and Thermal Insulation23)

HushMat’s ’94-’02 Dodge RAM Regular Cab Truck sound deadening and thermal insulation material is designed to make every type of vehicle cool, quiet and comfortable to drive and enjoy!  HushMat is an easy to install, USA Made material that molds, forms and adheres to your vehicle’s surface.

No tools, glues and or special equipment needed to install HushMat. Simply peel and stick. HushMat has invested thousands of hours over the past 15 years measuring vehicles to create a Year, Make and Model specific portfolio of 365,000 part numbers.  

HushMat insulates firewall, floor pan, tunnel, doors, roof and trunk. HushMat even provides installation templates to show where each piece is placed. Visit www.hushmat.com or call 913-599-2600.

LUVERNE Black Stainless Steel Side Entry Steps for 2020 Ram 1500 to 5500 (#281033-571632)

LUVERNE Side Entry Steps feature a classic, contoured design that mounts flush to the truck’s rocker panels to provide 5-1/2-in. of comfortable, non-skid stepping width while helping to protect the rocker panels against gravel spray, road debris, mud and other threats.

This set of Side Entry Steps fits the ’20 Ram 1500 to 5500 crew cab, as well as other model years.

• Contoured design with classic running board styling
• Mounts tight against the vehicle to shield rocker panels from gravel spray
• Molded, 5-1/2-in. wide, plastic step pads provide safe, comfortable entry and exit
• Powder-coated stainless steel construction for maximum corrosion resistance
• Durable, textured black powder coat for a sleek, rust-free finish
• Black plastic end caps for a bold appearance and added protection
• High-strength steel mounting brackets with a vehicle-specific fit
• Limited lifetime warranty (five-year finish, one-year parts)
• Assembled in USA

UWS 48-in. Truck Side Tool Box with Low Profile (#TBSM-48-LP)

UWS truck side tool boxes provide valuable storage and security for your items in the bed of your truck. Each box features a corrosion-resistant aluminum construction, a stainless steel locking system and a patented RigidCore foam-filled lid.

This particular truck side tool box also features a low-profile lid. It mounts low on the truck bed wall to better integrate with UWS low-profile crossover tool boxes and help maintain a clear view out the rear truck cab window.

• Mounts on the inside of the truck bed rails to provide additional storage space
• Patented RigidCore foam-filled lid to maximize strength and prevent binding
• Built lower on the bed rail to match low-profile crossover tool boxes
• 0.058-in. extra-thick, one-piece aluminum tub holds heavy tools and cargo
• Lockable, push-button operation with non-corrosive stainless steel construction
• MicroSeal gasket helps seal out moisture, dust and dirt
• Lid self-opens to nearly 90 degrees for convenient operation and loading
• Multiple box sizes available for a custom fit on each truck application
• Assembled in USA
• Limited lifetime warranty (one-year finish, one-year parts)

ZyBar 4 oz. Cast Finish (part no. 13004)

ZyBar 4 oz. Cast Finish (part no. 13004) high-temperature heat dissipation coating is designed to reduce radiant heat, reduce under hood temperatures, offers outstanding corrosion resistance, provides lasting color stability under the most extreme engine conditions and extends the life of your components. ZyBar is rated to internal temperatures well in excess of 2000 F.

ZyBar is a single component, durable polymer coating that far out performs ceramic paints, wraps and heat tapes.   

ZyBar is spray applied inside and outside the component.  ZyBar treats manifolds, headers, turbo housings, exhaust, brakes and intakes. ZyBar is a thin .001-.0025 film coating that is either oven cured (two hours at 450 F) or air cured (120 hours). Builders, jobbers, dealers and specialty coating operations interested in learning more can call our office 913-599-2600, or visit www.zycoat.com.

By Luis Morales

Initial CAD data for the ’21 Ford F-150 will include (but is not limited to): 4x4 suspension, exhaust, frame, steering, rear axle, dash, center stack, wheel well liners and cargo bed.

SEMA Tech Transfer has announced that CAD data for the ’21 Ford F-150 is now available.

Initial data will include (but is not limited to): 4x4 suspension, exhaust, frame, steering, rear axle, dash, center stack, wheel well liners and cargo bed.

New data will continuously be uploaded, upon release, so keep an eye on the Tech Transfer website’s “Latest Files” log, located at the bottom of the main landing page.  

For those who are already Tech Transfer members, feel free to browse through the website’s OEM CAD Repository to view all the available files. If you are not a Tech Transfer member and are interested in accessing SEMA’s 3D Scan data and OEM CAD data, contact garage@sema.org.

By Luis Morales

Initial CAD data for the ’21 Ford F-150 will include (but is not limited to): 4x4 suspension, exhaust, frame, steering, rear axle, dash, center stack, wheel well liners and cargo bed.

SEMA Tech Transfer has announced that CAD data for the ’21 Ford F-150 is now available.

Initial data will include (but is not limited to): 4x4 suspension, exhaust, frame, steering, rear axle, dash, center stack, wheel well liners and cargo bed.

New data will continuously be uploaded, upon release, so keep an eye on the Tech Transfer website’s “Latest Files” log, located at the bottom of the main landing page.  

For those who are already Tech Transfer members, feel free to browse through the website’s OEM CAD Repository to view all the available files. If you are not a Tech Transfer member and are interested in accessing SEMA’s 3D Scan data and OEM CAD data, contact garage@sema.org.

Join the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) as they host a Facebook Live Chat with Melanie Hellwig White, president of Hellwig Products, on December 2, at 12:00 p.m. (PST).